Brief
UAE women lead emergency response at Dubai airport after passenger falls ill
Shaikha Darwish Al Haddad’s medical dispatch team, along with terminal managers Ashjan AlMatrooshi and Zainab Yousuf, coordinated emergency care for a passenger who fell ill after turbulence, underscoring the role of women in Dubai airport operations.
By Felo News Desk · Published
When a passenger became seriously unwell after turbulence on a flight into Dubai International Airport, Shaikha Darwish Al Haddad’s medical dispatch team acted swiftly to arrange treatment and hospital transfer, according to Khaleej Times.
What happened
The incident occurred during a flight that encountered turbulence, after which a traveller showed signs of serious illness. Al Haddad, who leads airport medical dispatch for the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, mobilised doctors, ambulance services and airport staff to provide immediate care on arrival and ensure a safe hand‑over to a hospital.
What the reports add
Khaleej Times notes that the coordination involved not only medical responders but also terminal leaders Ashjan AlMatrooshi, senior duty manager for Terminal Service Delivery at Dubai Airports, and Zainab Yousuf, who together manage flight disruptions and passenger communication. The article highlights that the three women view leadership through the lens of rapid response, clear communication and passenger experience.
What was said
Al Haddad told Khaleej Times, “Every second matters in an airport environment, and my focus is on coordinating the team effectively so we can provide the best possible support to those in need.” She added that her career has taught her the importance of resilience, continuous learning and staying calm under pressure. Al Haddad also said, “The UAE’s support for women has given me the confidence to pursue leadership roles and contribute to my community.”
How it came about
The feature was prepared for Emirati Women’s Day, showcasing Al Haddad, AlMatrooshi and Yousuf as examples of women whose leadership is measured by actions during emergencies rather than titles alone. Their stories build on earlier Felo News coverage of UAE infrastructure projects and transport developments, such as the inauguration of Etihad Rail to Dubai (see UAE President boards Etihad Rail train to Dubai) and recent flight updates affecting Dubai’s airports (UAE Flights Update).
Key facts
- A passenger fell seriously ill after turbulence on a flight into Dubai International Airport. (khaleejtimes.com)
- Shaikha Darwish Al Haddad led the medical dispatch response, coordinating doctors, ambulance services and airport staff. (khaleejtimes.com)
- Terminal managers Ashjan AlMatrooshi and Zainab Yousuf helped manage flight disruptions and passenger communication during the incident. (khaleejtimes.com)
- Al Haddad said every second matters in an airport environment and highlighted the UAE’s support for women in leadership. (khaleejtimes.com)
Sources
- [1] khaleejtimes.com — originally reported as “Meet the UAE women who keep Dubai airport running under pressure”
